What should you not say to a tattoo artist?

Author: Diana Heaney  |  Last update: Thursday, October 30, 2025

Things You Probably Shouldn't Say to Your Tattoo Artist
  • “Can you go any faster?” – If you want a crappy tattoo, maybe.
  • “If I don't like it, can I get a refund?” – No, sorry. ...
  • “I've only had a few drinks before I came in.” – Well, I guess you're not getting your tattoo then.

What should I not tell my tattoo artist?

There are certain questions you should never ask your tattoo artist. For example, you should never ask your tattoo artist to negotiate on the price or copy another artist's work.

What are the 4 rules for talking to tattooed people?

So, general public, here are four things to keep in mind when you're interacting with tattooed people – and especially tattooed women – to strike a balance: to show appreciation, but not offend; to ask appropriate questions, but not overwhelm; to start a conversation that's genuine, not selfish.

What annoys tattoo artists?

Stupid ideas, indecisiveness, expecting free work (including expectations of original art), vague descriptions, haggling for price, being late to an appointment, /whining/ about pain, any question to the effect of ``is this permanent?

Is $20 a good tip for a $100 tattoo?

For every $100 spent on the tattoo most would say $20-$25 but I think most artists agree there is a reasonable limit to that. Probably anything over a $250 tip for one's days worth of tattooing might be unnecessary however greatly appreciated.

What Not To Say To A Tattoo Artist | Don't Say This!

Is $60 a good tip for a $200 tattoo?

As with tipping waitstaff, 20-25% percent is a good standard. An easy way to include tipping in your budget is to add it in when getting the estimated costs for having your work done. So, if your tattoo is expected to cost $200, with a 20-percent tip, that's $240.

What is the most overused tattoo?

Here are some of the most common cliche tattoos.
  • “Carpe Diem” ...
  • Om Sign. ...
  • Anchor. ...
  • “This Too Shall Pass” ...
  • Dreamcatcher. ...
  • Barred Wire. ...
  • Geometric animals. ...
  • Area Code. If you might want to get your area code tattooed on you in either large block numbers on your forearm, or in subtle small numbers somewhere else on your body.

What do tattoo artists refuse to do?

Tattooing minors, offensive hate symbols, or copyrighted designs without permission are examples of requests that can be legally refused.

Can you negotiate tattoo prices?

Negotiating or Criticizing the Tattoo Price

This one is at the top of the absolute worst tattoo shop etiquette. Don't negotiate the price. Tattoo artists will always quote you beforehand based on their time and the size of the tattoo.

What is the 4 dots tattoo?

Also known as the quincunx, the four dots on the outside represent four walls, with the fifth on the inside representing the prisoner. This tattoo can be found internationally, among both American and European inmates. The dots are typically found on an inmate's hand, between the thumb and forefinger.

What not to ask a tattoo artist?

“Can my children sit with me while I get tattooed?” – Unless you're speaking about adult children, no. “Where can my dog wait while I'm getting my tattoo?” – At home. “Can you just design if for me, and I can take the art home?” – No, because you are taking the design to another studio.

What is the smell in tattoo shops?

However, tattooists still used the carbolic type. Phenol, also known as carbolic acid, has an unmistakable sweet and tarry odour. Phenol is an antiseptic and disinfectant that has some medical uses. Phenol was one of the first antiseptics used to sterilise medical equipment.

What tattoo designs to avoid?

If you don't want to regret your body art, read this list of tattoos that you should never get.
  • White Ink Tattoos. White ink tattoos are the latest trend. ...
  • Face Tattoos. ...
  • Partner's Name. ...
  • A Cheap Tattoo. ...
  • Any Tattoo While Intoxicated. ...
  • An Offensive Tattoo. ...
  • What to Do If You Don't Like Your Tattoo.

Is it rude to ask the tattoo price?

There's nothing wrong with asking what the hourly rate is, and for a rough estimate of how long the tattoo will take. Trying to talk them down on their rates, though, that's where it gets rude. You have to have an idea of the cost...

What makes a tattoo artist stand out?

Skill, practice, an artistic mind, stamina, persistence, presence, reliability and consistency, an eye for detail, a steady hand, customer service, foresight, patience and a good teacher.

Do tattoo artists judge your body?

Tattoo Artists do not judge their clients. It is better to have doubts than to regret a tattoo you just got.

What are unprofessional tattoos?

If the content of a tattoo is racist, homophobic, or problematic in some way, this is a different story. Problematic tattoos can be revealing about a person's character. They show employers what values or beliefs they might bring to a workplace.

What not to do while getting a tattoo?

The number one rule of getting a tattoo is to sit still. If you move, the tattoo will be blurry, and the artist will not be happy. You can do a few things to stay still during your tattoo. First, take a deep breath and try to relax.

What is the hardest spot to tattoo?

Most Painful Places to Get Tattooed
  • Ribs. ...
  • Fingers. ...
  • Groin. ...
  • Head. ...
  • Armpit. ...
  • Upper Back. ...
  • Outer Arm. If you are looking to avoid pain, getting tattooed on the outer bicep is an excellent choice. ...
  • Outer Thighs. Much like the calves, the thighs have a lot of muscle.

What is the most regretted tattoo?

The types of tattoos people regret most are lettering/script (19%), symbols (16%), names (12%), animal designs (10%) and tribal tattoos (9%).

What damages tattoos the most?

Excessive Sun Exposure. Excessive sun exposure can quickly ruin a new tattoo. Especially during the first 40 days, stay out of the sun as much as possible. If you have to go outside, then make sure to cover up your fresh tattoo with clothing.

What size tattoo can I get for $200?

On average you can expect to charge $50-100 for a small tattoo, up to $200 for a medium tattoo and over $250 for a large tattoo.

Do you tip on a $3,000 tattoo?

The best rule of thumb you can follow is to tip at least 20 percent of the total cost of your service and tip even more for custom, intricate tattoo styles.

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